Hello everyone, please take a look and let me know any constructive criticism!! Especially regarding an item I haven't bought yet. My start date will most likely be early July, but it's flexible.

I definitely feel that my rain gear could use some improvement. Has anyone used an umbrella on the AT? I don't have much umbrella experience but I love the psychological boost of being "out of the rain."

Hi Brittany,I can't speak to any of the AT besides the Whites, but you might want to check out Ben & Lauren's blog at http://bltadventure.blogspot.com/. They were '07 NOBOs and had a gear list that was very similar to yours. FWIW, they carried GoLite umbrellas and Dri-Ducks jackets. If you got a similar garment, it could double as a windshirt, thus taking an item off your list (you could omit the umbrella then, too). I carry a silnylon poncho, windshirt and brimmed hat, myself, and hike in wind pants 'cause I'm a klutz.

Your headlamp could be lighter; have you looked at the Petzl e+lite or a Photon Freedom with a hat clip, each of which is well under an ounce? That also sounds like a lot of DEET to start out with. I know the following will add weight, but have you thought about: camera, sunscreen or visor/hat, earplugs in case you're stuck in a shelter or hostel with snorers? Oh yeah: and a little soap, like Dr. Bronner's, and some alcohol gel (Purell).

Thank you Heather for your reply! I will definitely be reading Ben & Lauren's blog.

I don't have a headlamp yet, that weight was an uneducated guess, as was the weight for the DEET. I'll look into the headlamps you suggested! My boyfriend is bringing a camera, and I'm planning to use the umbrella for any sunny sections. However if I ditch the umbrella I'll need sunscreen. Earplugs - good suggestion I will add those. I just went on a factory tour where we needed earplugs - I should've snagged a pair. Soap - I normally make do with a soap free bandanna bath!

Also I've been going back and forth on getting a Mariposa or Mariposa Plus. I like the color of the original better, and it's on sale right now at GG. But the Plus is sturdier and can carry a heavier load, which I might need if the AT has a drought like last year. The 2oz weight difference between the two doesn't matter to me.

I got my Mariposa Plus in the mail on Friday, as well as my Montbell Alpine down jacket. I got a jacket size L using my measurements and the guide on the website. However, I think the jacket may be too big. It doesn't fit snuggly with two layers underneath. How can I tell if the fit is right??

I know it's a balancing act because a too big jacket won't keep me as warm as I could be, while a too small jacket will compress the down. Help!! I may buy a medium and compare the fit, then return the one I don't like.

Sun exposure is not a problem on the AT. With the exception of a few open ridges and summits, you will be hiking in the shade even in the Smokies. I encountered several straight days of rain in August in VT, and was glad to have an umbrella which I rigged to carry hands free. It was most helpful when I stopped for a break in the pouring rain. I still got wet, however. so I no longer carry an umbrella. The highlight of my time with the umbrella is when I passed a woman who said she considered carrying an umbrella, but thought she would look stupid with it. Then I passed by a shelter in a downpour with hikers huddled inside. I asked for "Grey Poupon", but got only icy stares. The low point of carrying an umbrella was during a lightning storm. Somehow having a metal umbrella waving above my head was not comforting. As for a headlamp, go for one with strong one-bulb spot in the center. It will be helpful if you have to hike in the dark. I have used just a Photon (green) to hike but it only shows the trail at your feet. Take note that colored lights also change the color of the white blazes.